Published: 12 July, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

The borough’s sporting heroes were honoured at a special awards ceremony at the Talacre Community Sports Centre in Kentish Town on Tuesday celebrating their efforts in Europe’s largest annual youth sports event.

More than 400 youngsters donned the Camden colours to take part in the Balfour Beatty London Youth Games, the London Mini Games and the School Games.

Among the super squads recognised for their achievements were the senior and junior boccia sides, who were presented with Outstanding Team Awards after scooping silver medals in their respective main games and mini games events.

The Outstanding Boys’ Team Award was collected by the gymnastics squad who returned home with a team gold and a whole host of individual medals.

The Outstanding Girls’ Team Award was presented to the disability football team from Swiss Cottage School who won bronze for the second year running.

Speedster James Slade picked up the Outstanding Individual Boy Award after winning two gold medals and a silver in the swimming, while the Outstanding Individual Girl Award was shared by Ramlah Sharif and Mariah Steele.

Mariah won an individual gold medal in her gymnastics vault competition, while Ramlah won a gold medal in the shot putt and a bronze medal in the boccia.

The Mayor’s Fair Play Trophy was presented to the boys’ basketball team for their dedication and resilience on the court.

A roll-call of schools were also recognised for their efforts in the School and Community Games, one of Camden’s three Olympic Legacy projects.

There were also awards for all the hard work done behind the scenes, with Highgate Harriers’ coach Graham Norris being named Outstanding Volunteer. Coaches Faye Matthews, Gemma Boyle, Steve Russo and Ivan Pastore were given the Outstanding Team Award for all their hard work preparing Camden’s gymnastics teams.

Councillor Tulip Siddiq, cabinet member for culture and communities, said after helping to present the awards, “I would like to congratulate Camden’s young athletes for all their success and achievement this year.

“The programmes that make this all possible are the London  School Games, the London Youth Games, Camden Sports Academy’s talented athlete awards and the School and Community Games, which all focus on youth participation and excellence in sport.

“With an exciting summer ahead there will be plenty more opportunities in Camden for young people and their families to get involved in.

“From trampolining or interactive dance here at Talacre, to canoeing at Pirate Castle Canoe Club or free swimming opportunities at some of Camden’s indoor and outdoor pools.

“There’ll be something for everyone – please visit lovecamden.org for more details.”